European Maritime Single Windows
The European Maritime Single Window environment (EMSWe) is an EU-wide digital initiative designed to streamline and harmonise the reporting formalities required for ships calling at ports within the European Union. Established under Regulation (EU) 2019/1239, the EMSWe aims to reduce administrative burdens, enhance operational efficiency, and promote sustainability in maritime transport.
At its core, the EMSWe comprises a decentralised network of Maritime National Single Windows (MNSWs), which serve as single-entry points for information exchange in each Member State. These MNSWs are complemented by common software and services provided by the European Commission and communicate with the SafeSeaNet system to facilitate information exchange between the authorities of the Member States.
Key features of the EMSWe include:
The EMSWe is aligned with the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Guidelines for setting up a maritime single window, promoting a standardised and harmonised approach to reporting formalities.
Implementation of the EMSWe is expected to yield significant benefits for shipping operators, including annual cost savings estimated between €62–72 million and the saving of approximately 2.2–2.5 million staff hours.
The EMSWe is set to become fully applicable on 15 August 2025, with the European Commission, assisted by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), providing common IT components and services to support Member States in its implementation.
- Harmonised Data Set: A comprehensive data set covering all reporting obligations required for the completion of a port call, stemming from international, EU legal acts, or national legislation.
- Reporting Interface Module (RIM): A harmonised interface for system-to-system communication, ensuring interoperability between different user technologies and reporting systems.
- Once-Only Principle: Ensuring that data is submitted only once per port call, minimising repetitive data requests and enhancing data reusability.
The EMSWe is aligned with the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Guidelines for setting up a maritime single window, promoting a standardised and harmonised approach to reporting formalities.
Implementation of the EMSWe is expected to yield significant benefits for shipping operators, including annual cost savings estimated between €62–72 million and the saving of approximately 2.2–2.5 million staff hours.
The EMSWe is set to become fully applicable on 15 August 2025, with the European Commission, assisted by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), providing common IT components and services to support Member States in its implementation.
